I own nothing. If the spell is not from the books, it's the Latin translation.
Chapter IV
Two Months Later – July 1988
"Do you think we'll have to do sprints before dinner?"
"I don't know."
"What do you think you got for your birthday?"
"I don't know."
"Do you want to know what I got you?"
"No."
"Do you think mum and dad will let us go to Hogwarts?"
"I don't know."
"Do you think we'll get wands soon?"
"Depends."
"On what?"
"On whether or not you shut up."
"…"
"Do you think Moony will start – owwwww!" Danny looked down in his lap to find an little acorn. He rubbed his temple gingerly.
"That hurt, why did you – owwwww!" Another acorn flew through the air and hit him in square in the forehead.
"Why – owwwww!" This time the acorn hit him directly between the eyes.
"You're going to keep getting hit until you stop with the questions." Harry warned while he lightly tossed another acorn in his hand.
Danny rubbed his head with a playful scowl on his face but stayed quiet. Harry had been of a mood recently and Danny wanted to get him back to his usual self, especially on his birthday. As he rubbed his head, he noticed a hint of a grin on Harry's face. It had been slightly painful but Danny was happy he could get his brother to smile.
The two brothers lounged high up in the old yew tree that leaned over the edge of the cliff side. It was their favorite hang out spot and they loved to lie on the branches and look down at the crashing waves below. Today though, was Harry's tenth birthday and they had been commanded to stay away from the house until the preparations were finished. So far, Danny's present had been to constantly ask questions.
Harry's birthday, thus far, had brought a little extra stress to James and Lily. With Harry one year away from Hogwarts, the two couldn't decide on whether or not they should let him or Danny go to the ancient castle. Lily wanted to let them go, but James was concerned about Dumbledore and his interference with his sons. He had told Lily about what the Headmaster had tried the night Danny was born but Lily figured that it was just a slip of tongue and that Dumbledore would never harm Danny or Harry.
The one thing they did agree on was that if they let Harry go then they would have to let Danny go as well. Sirius and Remus had told them of the fame and recognition that Danny garnered and there was a lot of pressure on the Ministry to unveil their hero. The Ministry campaigned that Danny was under their protection and claimed the credit for Voldemort's disappearance ten years ago. It was all political codswallop, as James would say, but they worried that Fudge and the Ministry would find a way to exploit Danny and the power he possessed. They also worried that Harry might feel overshadowed by the attention his brother would get over him. Harry was still the first-born son to a very old magical family but he would probably never reach the level of recognition that Danny would. Did they really want to subject Danny and Harry to that?
The one thing they hadn't done yet was ask Harry his opinion. If they did they would discover that Harry really wanted to go. He loved his family and they were excellent teachers but he knew that Hogwarts would be a unique opportunity to enhance his skills. After Harry had been told that his little brother was special and obviously powerful, Harry became determined to reach his maximum potential. He knew that once his family returned to the world that everything would change and a small part of him wished they could just stay at the Cove forever, but he also knew that wasn't an option. Whatever the reason was for their self inflicted exile, it was obviously important and probably involved Danny and the mysterious, not to mention dangerous, power he possessed. That's why he wanted to go to Hogwarts so that he could find a way to help his brother any way he could. And in the back of his mind, he really wanted to meet other kids his own age. He wanted to see how well they were trained and to test his skills against them.
Harry looked over at his brother. Both of them looked like their father with different features of their mother mixed in. Harry had Lily's eyes while Danny had James's. Danny though, had Lily's smaller nose and did not need glasses. From a distance it seemed that both of them had their father's wind-swept dark hair but Danny's was actually a very dark shade of red. They were both tall for their age and years of running, combined with water sports, gave both of them a swimmer's physique. Neither of them was very stocky but what they lacked in muscle they made up for with quickness and agility.
"Alright boys, you can come inside now!" His mother's call interrupted his thoughts.
They lifted themselves and hung their legs off the branches they sat on. As they made their descent, Danny commented, "Well, at least we don't have to do sprints."
"And don't forget to do your sprints before coming in!" James yelled from the house. Harry's glare at his brother was met with an apologetic shrug as they continued down the winding branches. Suddenly, a loud crack was heard and Harry looked up just in time to see his brother slip on a broken branch. Danny tried to grab hold of another branch but could not find a grip and began to fall to the deadly rocks below. Harry instinctively reached out and grabbed hold of Danny's arm. Danny's momentum though, almost pulled them both out of the tree but Harry was able to hold on with one hand holding the branch and the other on Danny's arm.
"Harry!"
"Don't worry, I got ya Danny." Harry held on tightly to his arm, his hand mostly grasped the bracelet. He tried to pull him up to his branch but each time he heard his own branch creek and moan with the additional pressure and weight.
"Dad! Mum! Help!" Harry yelled but it was futile. He could hear music being played from the house and they probably couldn't hear him.
"Moony! Sirius! Help us!" but again nothing. Harry looked down to Danny who stared desperately at the house. Sensing Harry's gaze, he stared back, "We're going to have to do this on our own. Ok Danny?" Danny nodded worriedly and focused on the side of the cliff nearest him.
Harry's only option was to somehow swing Danny over to the ground, but it was far away and his branch could break any moment. Harry maintained eye contact with his obviously scared little brother, "We got to swing you to the side. My branch won't hold both of us." Danny nodded his head and stared toward the cliff side. It wasn't far but it wasn't close either. Harry could tell that Danny wasn't confident in the plan and looked very afraid.
"Hey, remember what Dad always said, 'accept the fear…'"
"'…and make it yours,'" Danny finished timidly. He closed his eyes to settle his nerves and prepared for his first swing. Harry re-griped his hand around the bracelet and began to softly rock back and forth to gain momentum to swing Danny. He had to be careful not to make any drastic movements or else his own branch might break. Danny remained focus on the cliff side; they were only going to get one chance at this. Each swing brought him closer and closer but it looked like Danny would have to launch himself and hopefully grab the roots that stuck out of the ground. Harry noticed it too and swung harder to get him closer. They had to hurry too because his grip was starting to loosen as the bracelet threatened to be pulled off with each swing.
"One more Danny and then you have to go for it." Danny nodded and with his other hand he prepared to grab one of the sturdier looking roots.
Suddenly, before Harry could completely send Danny forward, he lost his grip on the bracelet and forced it off his arm. Harry was left with nothing but the bracelet while Danny desperately reached for the roots but he wasn't close enough. Harry watched in horror as Danny plummeted to the rocks below. Danny wildly swung his arms but there was nothing to grab. Unable to stop his descent, Danny scrunched his eyes shut and fearfully waited for the inevitable.
All of a sudden, Danny's body started to glow and his descent slowed until he came to a full stop. Harry watched in amazement as Danny's body glowed brighter and began to ascend to safety. When his body landed safely on the ground by the tree he opened his eyes and breathed very heavily. His body continued to glow brighter and brighter and yet Harry was still able to see Danny's features. Danny examined his arms and the pulsating light. He quickly stood up and looked fearfully at the uncontrollable light that seemed to glow from every point of his skin. He frantically rubbed his arms and tried to put out the light but it was pointless; nothing seemed to stop it from growing. He finally looked up into the tree at Harry and hoped he had an answer to what was happening to him. Harry was struck senseless at what his brother was doing and had no answer to Danny's questioning gaze. Danny looked back at his hands and tried to concentrate on making it stop but it wouldn't work.
Suddenly a blood-curdling scream came from the house. "JAMES!"
Danny instinctively looked to their home at the sound of their mother's cry. He stared back at Harry before he ran towards the house.
Harry also hurried to get out of the tree but he stopped when he realized he still had Danny's bracelet in his hand. Suddenly understanding why his mother screamed, he quickly yelled. "Danny, no wait!"
It was no use; Danny was already halfway to the house and made no indication of slowing to answer Harry's call. Harry scrambled down the tree, firmly holding the bracelet in his hand, and chased after his brother to put it back on his arm. Harry was able to make up some ground but couldn't stop Danny before he entered the house.
When Harry entered the excessively decorated living room, he saw Sirius desperately trying to calm Danny down while Lily and Remus kneeled beside James who was violently shaking with foam bubbling out of his mouth. Lily and Remus had their wands out and were trying desperately to stabilize him. Harry quickly ran over to Danny and grabbed his brightly glowing arm and jammed the bracelet back on. The ruby instantly lit up and cast the entire room in red. The manor began to heavily vibrate as the bracelet siphoned the enormous amount of magic that Danny was emitting.
Many loud crashes were heard as plates and vases were knocked over their perches. The furniture violently rattled across the floor and some of the paintings fell off the walls as their sticking charms broke under the strain. Just as they thought the house would topple down around them, Danny's body began to dim and the house stopped shaking and returned to its regular color.
When Danny reached his normal luster, he promptly collapsed and passed out. Sirius was there to catch him and softly settled him on the ground. Their attention quickly went over to James who also stopped shaking and went limp.
Remus immediately checked his vitals, "He's still alive, but barely." Lily instantly started to cry and buried her head in James's chest.
Harry breathed a sigh of relief and looked around the room. The banner with moving drawings of Harry flying after a snitch hung loosely off the ceiling among a myriad of multicolored streamers and balloons. Piled on the dining table was a jumbled stack of presents and a large cake which had toppled over and lied smash on the floor. It seemed that they had gone all out to make his tenth birthday special but now it seemed like the celebration was going to be on hold for awhile. Bobby and Gretel popped into the room and sorrowfully shuffled through the debris. They replaced the furniture and paintings, cleaned up the broken dishes and the shattered glass. Remus then called Bobby over and had him transfer James to his bed and instructed him that he mustn't allow James to move until he awoke. Gretel continued through the room and eventually came to stand next to Harry.
"Happy birthday, Master Harry," she said sadly.
Harry didn't respond but he couldn't help but think. 'Yeah, happy birthday.'
An hour later, everyone was in the master suite and stood around the bed where James laid. Sirius had carried Danny to the room and placed him on the couch by the window. Danny awoke ten minutes later and instantly searched for his father. Lily was there and assured him that James was going to be alright. Danny immediately started questioning what had happened and why he was glowing. Lily struggled to answer him, she knew that the cat was out of the bag and they were going to have to explain what they knew. Sirius had offered to oblivate Danny so he wouldn't remember what happened but Lily refused, they had spent eight years keeping the truth from their sons and it was time for them to know. Lily though, was going to wait for James to wake up before they spoke to Danny and Harry about the prophecy.
Danny sat anxiously as they all waited for James to open his eyes. He hung on to the hope that this somehow wasn't his fault, that he wasn't the cause of James's near death experience. But at the same time, he had the sinking feeling that it was. He recalled the lessons that Remus taught them about finding their magical core and the importance of having a harmonious relationship. Whenever he would reach out to his magic, he always found a magnificently bright and beautiful ball of energy. At first he had been afraid of its vastness but he only ever felt peacefulness when he would commune with his core. But now he didn't know what to think. He certainly didn't feel safe and had to control the growing knot in his stomach. He then examined his arm and the softly glowing bracelet that had become his favorite thing to wear these past years. When he first received it from Harry, he couldn't have been more overjoyed. Not only did he get it for beating his brother for the first time, but it was something that Harry had spent time to make just for him.
Danny looked up to Harry and constantly sought to make his big brother proud of him. There wasn't one lesson whether in history or dueling that Harry didn't excel in and Danny always followed his lead. To Danny, no one was more awesome and cool than his big brother Harry. And now, he felt slightly betrayed that Harry had somehow known that this situation could happen and that the circumstances of his first victory over him were probably rigged so that he would receive the bracelet. A part of him wanted to scream at them for lying and throw the bracelet as far as he could but he restrained for fear of the consequences of removing the bracelet again. He subconsciously rubbed the bracelet and squeezed it as hard as he could: he would never allow it to leave his arm again.
Thirty minutes later, James finally showed signs of waking to which Lily and Remus immediately rushed to check on him. James tried to lift himself but this wasn't like last time, he couldn't move at all. All he was able to do was move his eyes around and they were forced to use a simple Morse Code through blinking to communicate. It took a while, but Remus was finally able to restore basic movement, at least to James's head, and allow him to speak.
James's voice was raspy and low. "Where's Danny and Harry?" was the first question he asked.
Harry was the first to reach him but Danny stayed over by the window. He feared what would happen if he got too close and the damage he could cause. James gingerly looked over to Danny and tried his best to smile for his son, "Its okay Danny, come here."
Danny walked with his head cast down towards James's side of the bed. James concentrated with all his might to move his arms so he could wrap them around his son and comfort him. Very shakily, he managed to raise his arms enough for Danny to scoot in. As Danny lay in James's arms, he couldn't control his fear and desperately hung onto his father as he body shook with tears. Harry did his best to remain stoic and strong but on the inside he was doing about as well as Danny.
After a few moments of comforting words and embracing, Danny asked. "What's wrong with me?"
James lifted Danny so that he looked him in the eyes, "There is absolutely nothing wrong with you, alright? Nothing." James stressed. "You will always be perfect to us, do you understand?" James also looked at Harry to emphasize that he meant both of them. Harry nodded his head and felt Lily's comforting hands upon his shoulders.
Danny also nodded his head, "But then…" Danny paused, "…why was I glowing and how did you get hurt?"
James breathed in deeply. He knew that Danny would start with the hardest questions. With one final deep breath, James began to tell them everything. He began with the war and Voldemort's campaign against the muggles and muggleborns. He told them about Dumbledore and the Order of the Phoenix and all the work they did. He even told them about their friend, Peter Pettigrew, and how he went missing. Danny and Harry listened with rapt attention and noticed the pain that it invoked as James spoke of the war, especially when he mentioned Peter, but they were still confused on what it had to do with Danny. When James's got to the night Danny was born, he paused and collected himself. By now, Danny had risen from his arms and sat on the edge of the bed while Harry remained standing.
James took a sip of water that Lily conjured. He was getting very tired but he had to finish this before he fell asleep again. "The day before you were born, a Seer named Abrielle Delacour foretold that a child would be born on a night of a haloed moon and would have great power. That night, there was a halo around the moon and you came into the world." James paused again. "Your mother had been researching the mystery of the haloed moon until two months ago when she discovered its secret."
Harry looked up at Lily who simply nodded to his unasked question; he had helped her find the answer. Danny also looked at his mother and wondered what else there was to reveal. He already felt overwhelmed and hoped there wouldn't be much more. Lily then decided to take over and give James a rest.
"When you were born, magic that usually flows naturally throughout the world ended up going into your magical core and that's why you were glowing. You have an enormous amount of magic in you but you haven't learned how to control it yet. Consequently, without the bracelet, your magic is greater than your dad's and it can hurt him if it's released inside the wards. That bracelet keeps you from releasing your magic to the point that will harm Dad."
"You said that Danny would have great power, but why?" asked Harry.
This was the moment that James dreaded, "Because son, the-the…" James couldn't say it. He couldn't say that Danny had to kill the most evil wizard in history. He looked deeply into Danny's eyes, "… the prophecy said that you will end the war, that you will stop the Dark Lord."
What blood was left in Danny's face disappeared, 'Stop the Dark Lord? That means kill him, right?!' his mind screamed. Danny's breath immediately quickened and his bracelet began to glow a little brighter. Danny quickly noticed and when he looked down at his hand, he began to glow slightly. Feeling completely overwhelmed, "No! I won't!" he yelled as he ran from the room.
Everyone called after him and moved to follow. Harry also meant to follow but James asked Harry to wait behind.
Harry walked up to the bed and waited for his father to speak. James took another sip of water.
"There are things that you going to have to do now, Harry. Things that I didn't want you to worry about for a while but things have changed now."
Harry nodded along and waited to hear what he needed to do. It had already been a crazy day but Harry trusted that his father knew what to do.
"For your birthday, your mother and I were going to tell you that you will be going to Hogwarts next year, but with a few conditions. Those conditions will have to change now and you'll have to deliver them."
Harry was excited that he was going to Hogwarts but he was also confused, "Deliver them to whom?"
"We'll get to that, now, do you remember what I've told you about the Ancient Houses and the Potter name."
Harry nodded his head. He was told he was the first-born of the Noble and Most Ancient House of Potter and as such would be a powerful political figure once he reached adulthood. He had had a few lessons on wizarding politics and he knew of the pureblood mania that corrupted much of the Ministry.
"Good. Starting this week you're going to have to learn more about politics and political strategy."
Harry was even more confused, "I don't understand, Dad, why?"
James tried his best to lift himself into a seated position before answering, "Because you're going to have to start representing me outside of the manor." At Harry's puzzled expression he continued, "Because I can't feel my legs."
One Year Later – August 1989
Harry stood erect outside the gates of Hogwarts as he waited for his escort. Clutched loosely in his hands was his Hogwarts acceptance letter. Normally, students would just send an owl to confirm their enrollment but the Potters were not a normal family, at least, not anymore. Harry would much rather be back at home but his father's paralysis never left and he was forced to stand in his father's place.
James's condition was diagnosed as a special case of magical paralysis. The effects were only felt in his legs which confined him to a magical wheelchair and made most means of magical transportation impossible. From that day on, Harry had private lessons every day with either James or Sirius for moments like the one he was about to walk into. He was taught how to maintain a strong physical and mental front when dealing with those with political power. They also taught him how to be charming and sophisticated in order to develop beneficial alliances and gain favors. Sirius favorably commented that his vibrant green eyes would certainly benefit him, especially with the ladies. Harry scrunched his nose at the thought but Sirius assured him that one day he's going to be glad he inherited Lily's eyes.
In addition, it was important that he developed a mask that shielded the things that made him vulnerable and to deaden his emotions against attempts to invoke an emotional response. Harry really didn't like any of it but he learned it nonetheless and was pretty good at shutting down his emotions. The key was to create a mental box and push all his thoughts and emotions into it so they can be released privately later. It was into this box that Harry pushed all his thoughts when he noticed a silhouette approaching the gate.
Through the morning dew, the imposing figure of Professor Minerva McGonagall approached the small boy that stood outside the gate. If she didn't already know who it was, she could have sworn that James Potter had cloned himself to look like his 11 year-old self but when she noticed his eyes she saw Lily's son. She examined the area behind Harry before she waved her wand to lower the wards on the gate and opened it.
"Mr. Potter." She greeted politely.
"Madam." Harry replied formally with a slight bow.
McGonagall was impressed. 'He may look like James but at least he acts more like Lily,' she thought, drawing her initial impression.
"If you would follow me, please." Harry nodded and fell into pace beside her as they made their way to the castle.
They walked in comfortable silence as they made their way through the wooded path before they reached the bridge to the main entrance of the castle.
"I assume this is the route for the carriages for the upper-classman, am I right?" Harry commented. He made sure to keep his tone light; he wanted to make a good impression on the parent's favorite teacher.
"I see that your parents have told you some things about Hogwarts." She replied.
"Not too much, they wish to keep most of it a surprise."
"But I'm sure they told you that students normally owl their acceptance."
"My parents wished for me to come and personally speak with the Headmaster. I'm sure you understand their concern over my and my brother's enrollment."
"How are they?"
Harry took a moment to think about the question. The expression on the old teacher's face told him that she cared very deeply for his parent and he knew the feeling was mutual. Whenever 'Professor McGonagall' was mentioned in the household it was always followed with a great amount of respect. The Marauders would share smiles, inside jokes, and stories of how they tormented their old Head of House. Lily would scold them, of course, but laughed along nonetheless. Her tales were a lot more personal, for it was McGonagall that came to her home and introduced her to magic. She had immediately latched onto her as a role model and cherished their relationship. Harry and Danny always listened with interest; very rarely did they get to hear about people and events that happened outside of the Cove. So far, Harry certainly felt the aura of authority surrounding her and felt immediate respect for the Marauders' bravado.
"They are well. They wished for me to send you their greetings." McGonagall smiled softly as she thought back on her memories of her old students.
"And what of your brother, are the rumors true about him?" She asked though she not as subtle as she had hoped.
"I would not know of any rumors, not since we have been forced into hiding since the day he was born." Harry said in slight annoyance. He knew he shouldn't be angry with her but when he was told that the Ministry had practically painted a target on his family the day they released Danny's name to the public, he couldn't help but feel hostile towards anyone who asked about his brother. But this wasn't the time for hostility and he knew that McGonagall meant no harm. He quickly sought to apologize but McGonagall beat him to it.
"Forgive me. I should not have asked," McGonagall regretted her question and mentally scolded her impoliteness.
"No, I apologize. You were simply curious. My parents told me of how close you all were during their schooling and the war so it's only natural." Harry quickly apologized and resumed his polite demeanor. "My brother is curious about rest of the world, like me, and he isn't too happy that I'll be gone for most the year. He says it will be dreadfully boring without me around," he said with a fond smile.
"You two are close then?" She said more as a question than a statement.
"Of course, he's my brother." Harry wondered why she would question his relationship with his brother which begged the question, what exactly were these rumors saying about them?
McGonagall was slightly taken aback by the simplicity of his answer. She couldn't believe she had ever listened to the rumors that Harry wouldn't be treated as important as Danny. She then realized it was ridiculous for anyone to make assumptions about the Potters when there was absolutely no evidence to back them up. But then again, there was never any evidence towards anything. All anybody knew of the Potters came from Remus and Sirius and they rarely, if ever, said anything about them. With that in mind, she decided right then to throw away everything she was told her about the Potter boys and form her own opinions. So far, she was very pleased by what she saw in the eldest Potter and had high expectations when he joined her house.
'He will make a fine Gryffindor, just like his parents,' she thought.
Their small talk died away when they cleared the tree line and got their first glimpse of Hogwarts. Harry's mouth literally dropped, though he quickly picked it right up, at the majestic sight of the old school. The early morning fog still cast a hazy shadow over it but that only added to its mysticism. Harry's eyes roamed over every inch of the medieval castle and its many turrets and towers. He couldn't wait to wonder through them and discover their secrets for himself. Harry knew of his father's and his friends' reputation and their advance knowledge of the ins and outs of the castle but when he asked about them, they refused and said he would have to find them for himself. Harry was eager to prove himself and earn his birthright as a son of the famous Marauders.
The two continued in comfortable silence until they arrived at the gargoyle statue that guarded the entrance to the Headmaster's office. "Fizzy Pops!" McGonagall provided the password and watched as the gargoyle sprung to life and moved out of the way.
"The headmaster's office is just up the stairs. Make sure to knock before entering," she instructed.
Harry nodded. "Thank you for the escort, Professor McGonagall. I look forward to attending your class."
"Your welcome, Mr. Potter." McGonagall was impressed and happy that she didn't once detect a hint of mischief. She watched relieved as he began his ascent up the stair but as she turned around to head towards her office, she heard.
"Me-Me-Meooowww!"
She instantly whirled around but Harry was already out of sight. She narrowed her eyes, 'Perhaps there is some Marauder in him, Merlin help us,' she thought.
Meanwhile, Harry walked briskly up the stairs and away from his future professor. He couldn't believe he had done that. His Uncle Sirius had told him about an old tease he would do around the old professor and taught it to Harry before he left. Harry didn't understand it but promised that he would try and do it if he saw her.
Harry was never one for loud and obvious pranks like his father and uncles. He preferred to make his discreet enough so that they only appeared to be bad luck instead of a well orchestrated prank. His best one to date was when he made his Uncle Sirius fall into a cauldron of spiced chili that singed off all the hair on his head, including his eyebrows. What he had done was strategically place his and Danny's toys in front of the kitchen that would cause Sirius to trip in the exact direction of the bubbling pot of chili to which Harry had added his own ingredients that would burn off his uncle's prized hair. It had worked splendidly and Sirius was none the wiser that Harry was the culprit. They all had a wonderful time coming up with joke after joke of how nice Sirius looked without any hair. It was a week later before Harry left a note for his uncle that warned him against any future thefts of the pastries that Gretel would bake specially for Harry and Danny.
But now wasn't the time to reminisce, Harry quickly pushed his thoughts away and prepared to meet with the headmaster. He raised his fist but just as he was about to knock, the door slowly creaked open. Harry pushed the door to reveal the Headmaster, Albus Dumbledore, seated comfortable behind his large mahogany desk. He portrayed a soft smile and a twinkle in his eye as he awaited his morning appointment.
"Headmaster," addressed Harry with a slight nod of head.
Dumbledore's grin grew slightly, "Mr. Potter, please have a seat."
The chair in front of the desk moved on it's own to welcome its upcoming guest. As Harry made his way in, his eyes couldn't help but wonder at the myriad of gadgets and instruments that decorated the foyer. Above him were a vast collection of magical portraits of former headmasters and headmistresses who were all snoozing in very uncomfortable looking chairs. But what caught Harry's attention the most was the regal creature perched just over Dumbledore's left shoulder. Harry had never seen a phoenix before and its piercing gaze captivated him.
Dumbledore noticed the stare, "Fawkes, this is Harry Potter." Fawkes bowed his head in acknowledgement and Harry did the same before he shifted his attention to the smiling Headmaster and took a seat.
"I must admit, when I received your father's owl, I expected him to be here," started Dumbledore with a grandfatherly twinkle in eyes.
"My father wished for me to meet you and decide for myself whether or not we should accept our enrollment," answered Harry coolly.
Dumbledore hid his surprise. "You do not want to come to Hogwarts."
"I did not say that. While Daniel's enrollment remains unclear, I shall attend Hogwarts to assess whether or not the benefits warrant the risk." Harry had practiced what he was going to say repeatedly with his father and was mindful not to get off topic.
Harry then reached into his robe and retrieved an envelope and placed it on the desk. "While I am here, these conditions must be met and maintained if you want Daniel to come here."
Dumbledore picked it up and saw a list of conditions, most concerning the castle's security. Dumbledore took a moment to read over each one. Harry waited patiently. He knew some of the conditions were a bit extreme and wished to observe Dumbledore's reactions. His eye's also flickered occasionally to the beautiful phoenix.
"I see that James hasn't lost his touch when it comes to security but I do not see why they are necessary. Hogwarts has not been threatened in years," commented Dumbledore.
Harry smiled slightly. "You and I both know that one day that will change and as such our enrollment represents a substantial risk. Voldemort will return and if Hogwarts is not safe then Daniel and I will continue our education at home and face him on our own."
Dumbledore's eyes rose slightly at the fact that Harry spoke the Dark Lord's name and the implications of his declaration. It also told him something else.
"I see, so your brother is aware of the destiny that lies before him."
"Yes," answered Harry somewhat sorrowfully, the first sign of emotion he had shown.
Dumbledore didn't miss the slip and figured that there must be more going on at Harry's home than Harry would reveal. Perhaps a bit of questioning.
"And your parents thought it wise to tell a child that he has such a destiny?"
"No, they didn't have a choi…" Harry stopped himself from finishing. This was not how this conversation was supposed to go. James warned him that Dumbledore had a knack for getting people to reveal more than they wanted to. It all had to do with his eyes and his power of his mind. James had witnessed it first hand nine years ago when he tried to get the Potters to move to Hogwarts. Harry, much like his father, was not going to let Dumbledore influence him.
"Are the conditions satisfactory?" asked Harry, returning the conversation to its original purpose. It was an obvious diversion but it was all Harry could think of.
Dumbledore paused before answering, so far, he was quite impressed with Harry's fortitude. "All these are acceptable, is there anything else?" He decided to abandon his questioning. If he pushed too much, he might lose the chance to gain Harry's trust and the opportunity to discover more about his home life.
"King's Cross, what security measures are placed around the platform?"
"Very little, I'm afraid. We keep the wards light so that parents can escort their children to the train. Even muggles, if they are in contact with a wizard, can access the platform."
Harry paused for a moment to think, "Then I will arrive directly to the castle."
"No," rejected Dumbledore. "It is tradition for new and returning students to take either the boats or the carriages to the castle; a tradition I will see continued."
"What do you have at Hogsmeade Station?" asked Harry, he figured that there would be some negotiations and was prepared for it.
"Hagrid meets the train and escorts the new students to the boats after he ushers the older students to the carriages that are overseen by the teachers."
'Hagrid,' Harry thought, his parents told him about the large gamekeeper. He was a simple and gentle man, despite his giant heritage, but was hardly a push-over. "Very well, I shall meet Hagrid at Hogsmeade Station at 6 PM September 1st."
"That is acceptable, now-" Dumbledore began.
"Forgive me, there is one more matter we need to discuss." Harry interrupted while trying to maintain his manners. Dumbledore stopped his attempt to return the conversation to Harry's family and waited for the next condition.
"If my brother accepts his enrollment, then I will be his academic guardian. All decisions concerning Daniel's education will require my approval. Any attempt to interfere or test Daniel's abilities will be met with his and my immediate removal from this institution. At any point, if I feel that Hogwarts is unsafe or is no longer beneficial to myself or Daniel, I will terminate our enrollment. This is non-negotiable and must be accepted immediately."
There have not been many moments that have left Albus Dumbledore speechless but the latest demand made by the Potters did just that; never in all his years as Headmaster had a student ever been the academic guardian of another. Why, the only way that would be possible is if…
"You have been named as Heir Apparent of House Potter," declared Dumbledore more as a statement then a question.
Harry nodded in confirmation. To be Heir Apparent meant that Harry would be forced to take the mantle of Head of House once the current Head stepped down. It also allowed Harry to have more control over those in the House of Potter, such as, academic guardian. It wasn't an unusual position for the eldest child in a Noble and Most Ancient House but never for one that hadn't yet reached their 17th birthday. There wasn't an age restriction but traditional decorum didn't have a child who hadn't yet reached Hogwarts claim the title. Harry had assumed the title a month after his father's paralysis and had begun to undertake the responsibilities as future Head of House. It was imperative that no one realize that James was weakened or else their home and family would be in even more danger.
"Your answer?"
In his shock over the revelation, Dumbledore had forgotten to answer the condition, "It seems I have not choice but to accept, though, I'm shocked that James and Lily would place you in such a position." Dumbledore hoped to see some kind of reaction from Harry. He worried that Harry would crumble under the weight of his responsibilities and become resentful toward those closest to him. Thus far, the conversation reminded him too much of another one he had some fifty years ago with a young orphan that could talk to snakes.
"It was my choice," answered Harry indifferently.
Dumbledore didn't understand, "But why?" Did Harry want power? Did he want to control his brother and keep him from his destiny? Dumbledore's mind raced with possible reasons, none of which painted Harry in a very positive light.
Harry, though, thought it was obvious but decided to clarify his intentions; it was something he felt Dumbledore should understand about him.
"You are the oldest in your family, correct?"
Dumbledore nodded at the question, unsure of where Harry was going with this.
"And you love your family?"
Dumbledore nodded again. "Yes, yes I do."
"Then you know that sometimes you have to give up what you want in order for them to be happy, to protect them," Harry noticed that Dumbledore was beginning to understand so he continued. "Well, my brother has the entire world looking to him to kill the most feared wizard in history but do you know who he looks to? Me, and I'm going to do everything I can to help him."
Dumbledore remained still but the impact of Harry's words reminded him too much of his own troubled past. It was his naïve and harmful ambitions that led to his sister's death, his estrangement from his brother, and his subsequent abandonment of his quest for power. He then realized that if he wanted to help Daniel Potter then he needed Harry's trust which meant he needed to give up some control.
Sensing the conversation was at an end, "I see that I was wrong about you, Mr. Potter, and I hope that we can grow to trust each other and help your brother fulfill his destiny," said Dumbledore as he rose from his chair and held out his hand to the young wizard before him. Harry rose with him and accepted the Headmaster's hand and gave a firm handshake.
"I hope so too," said Harry in a way that told Dumbledore that it wasn't going to be easy to rebuild that trust. With their business now concluded, Harry took one final glance at Fawkes before he said goodbye and left the office.
When Harry returned home, he sat in his father's office with his parents and went over everything that happened in Dumbledore's office. James swelled with pride at how well his son handled himself and was glad to hear that all of their demands were met. Lily was happy to hear that Harry met Professor McGonagall and to hear that she was well and had asked about them. When they asked what he made of Dumbledore, Harry conveyed that he didn't sense any real ill intent and a genuine desire to redeem himself. James was glad to hear it and Lily got to say 'I told you so.' They just hoped that the Headmaster's instincts to interfere and control things wouldn't get in the way.
After an hour of questioning, Harry was finally allowed to leave and immediately sought out Danny and unwind. After a thorough search of the house without success, Harry realized where his brother would be and made his way outside. Harry followed the worn path to the gazebo that rested near the beach access point. Inside the gazebo and staring off into the sunset was Danny. Ever since Harry's birthday last year, Danny spent most of his time in this gazebo and would stare out into the ocean. Danny continued to struggle with accepting his destiny and controlling the tremendous power he possessed. It was so far a slow process as Danny was very weary of tapping into the vast well of energy inside him. He didn't want to hurt his father or anyone else if he lost control again. It was also difficult to work with the bracelet on and stay under the power level to keep it from activating. All in all, it hadn't been the most fun year for Danny. The gazebo was the one place Danny would go and not worry about anything. The sound of the waves crashing against the rocks and the multiple forms of bird-life created a peaceful cadence for Danny's relaxation.
Harry took a moment to observe his younger brother, he was bent over with his brow furrowed in frustration and kneading his hands. It was obviously a tough day of practice and his frustration certainly wasn't helping his progress. Harry took a step into the gazebo which caused one of the floor boards to creek and alert Danny to Harry's presence. Danny didn't say anything; he just leaned back and put his hands in his lap. Harry took the seat next to him and stared off into the horizon. They remained in comfortable silence until Danny finally spoke.
"How was Hogwarts?"
"It's pretty amazing. And when you get there, you and I will explore it together," said Harry as he placed his arm around Danny for a one arm hug.
Danny just nodded his head. They both knew that they had to face the fact that they would be separated soon. Ever since Danny was born, they had spent everyday together and while Harry would be among other kids and able to make new friends, Danny would be left at the Cove with no one but their parents. Harry was doing his best to spend as much quality time with Danny until the day he had to leave for school. He also reminded him that it was only going to be two short years before he would join him and that he would be home for the holidays. Danny knew that but it still wasn't very easy to accept.
"And Dumbledore? Is he one of the good guys?"
"I think so," replied Harry, "I mean he has a phoenix for a familiar and they don't just hang around anyone, do they?" Danny perked up slightly at the mention of Fawkes, he had always wanted to see a real one and not just in pictures.
Seeing a chance to cheer Danny up, Harry continued, "Yeah, his name is Fawkes and its eyes kind of draw you in and you just feel peaceful, you know?" Danny, of course, didn't know but he looked forward to seeing for himself.
"So, we can trust him?" asked Danny with a mixture of hope and anxiety.
"I don't know yet," answered Harry honestly. They had laid some foundation but it was too soon to put Dumbledore in the 'trusting ally' column just yet.
"Just us then," concluded Danny.
Harry pulled Danny into another one-arm hug. "Always."